Create your account and enjoy a new shopping experience.

Create A New Account

Showa

Choose a Showa koi for your pond

Showa Sanshoku koi combine a black base with red and white markings. Their black pattern often extends onto the head and wraps around the body, creating a different visual balance from Sanke. For collectors who enjoy strong contrast, the individual arrangement of these colors is the starting point for selection. Fitz's Fish Ponds specializes in Japanese-imported koi for pond owners and collectors.

What to check before buying Showa

Compare the whole fish from above, not just one striking patch of color. Look at body shape, the distribution of red and white, and the black pattern across the head and body. Read the stated size and breeder information alongside the photographs and any video. A breeder name or variety label does not guarantee future development, and undocumented age or sex should be clarified before you buy.

Confirm whether the listing is for the exact fish pictured or a group-selected fish. Read the applicable purchase and delivery terms, and prepare a separate quarantine system before arrival. Choose a Showa you enjoy looking at now, with care requirements that fit your pond and filtration. Contact Fitz's Fish Ponds if you would like help comparing individual fish or checking the sourcing information supplied with a listing.

SHOP OUR SELECTION OF SHOWA KOI FISH ONLINE

Breeders Specializing in Showa Koi Fish:

Dainichi

Isa

Marushin

Showa Koi adds a dramatic presence in any pond and is best known for its deep-contrast colors. Unlike Sanke, which has a white base, Showa Koi is born out of a black foundation with red and white markings. The contrast in the colors deepens the visual impact of the Koi, especially when the black sumi is sweeping through the body.

This variety was developed during Japan’s Showa era and is one of the three koi varieties known as Gosanke, which are considered the royalty of Koi. True Showa has blackheads with red and white for a full three-color display right from the face.

At Fitz’s Fish Ponds, we offer handpicked Showa koi from elite breeders like Dainichi, Isa, and Marushin—each known for producing fish with bold sumi, vibrant hi, and deep, clean shiroji that hold strong as the koi mature. These Showa are selected for their powerful body conformation and dynamic patterns that stand out in any pond. Whether building a new collection or adding to a seasoned one, explore our diverse selection and find the Showa koi that brings style and presence to your water garden.

SHOWA KOI FISH FAQS

What is a Showa Koi?

Showa Koi is a three-color variety of koi with white and red markings on a black body. Along with Sanke and Kohaku, they are one of the three Gosanke.

When do you ship the koi?

We ship all our koi fish Monday–Wednesday using next-day air. If you would like a specific arrival date for your order, please let us know in the order comments when you checkout.

What distinguishes Showa from Sanke?

The base color. Showa has a black base with red and white markings over it. Sanke never has Showa's head markings.

How long do they live?

With proper care, Showa can reach over 28 inches. Genetically, the fish will need space in the pond and a steady food supply.

Do these types of koi require a lot of experience?

They are a splendid option for koi enthusiasts of any skill. Their strong color contrast makes them stand out and easily identified.

Can these types of koi coexist with other varieties?

Indeed, Showa Koi are gentle and can survive in mixed koi settings. Mixing with white-based koi such as Kohaku provides great contrast in the pond.

What should you look for when selecting a good Showa Koi?

Pay attention to red, white, and black borders, especially on the head. When purchasing one, look for balanced patterns and shapely bodies.

What do I give my Showa Koi to eat?

Use high-protein koi pellets during warmer months and switch to wheat germ in colder months. Color-enhancing food can sharpen red and white colors.

Do Showa Koi change color as they mature?

They can. The majority of younger Showa increase their sumi as they age, which deepens their patterns even more.

Can Showa be kept in a small pond?

They can, but larger ponds provide more benefits, such as enhanced swimming and growing space. This extra space helps improve their patterns' sharpness and overall health.

Why should I add Showa koi to my pond?

Showa is one of the best choices if you need koi. They stand out due to their bold contrast and energetic pattern movement, which makes them eye-catching and alive.

FFP

29cm Japanese Imported Showa - QT1-34

$175.00

29cm Japanese Imported Showa – Marusei Koi Farm (Japan)This 29cm Japanese Imported Showa from the renowned Marusei Koi Farm (Japan) is a beautiful tri-color koi that combines bold patterning with...

Compare

FFP

25cm Japanese Imported Showa - Marusei - A6-40

$250.00

25cm Japanese Imported Showa – Marusei Koi FarmBring bold colour and authentic Japanese craftsmanship to your pond with this exceptional 25cm Japanese Imported Showa from the renowned Marusei Koi...

Compare

FFP

25cm Japanese Imported Showa - Marusei - A6-50

$200.00

25cm Japanese Imported Showa – Marusei Koi FarmAdd bold color and classic Japanese beauty to your pond with this striking 25cm Japanese Imported Showa from the renowned Marusei Koi Farm. As one of...

Compare

Compare selected